Living in Petworth

Petworth embodies a strong sense of community, with an active calendar of seasonal events, arts festivals, and local markets. The Petworth Festival is a renowned annual celebration of music and the arts, while regular farmers’ markets and craft fairs provide opportunities for socialising and local engagement.

Green spaces and outdoor lifestyle are central to life in Petworth, with Petworth Park offering walks, sports, and scenic picnic spots. Petworth’s community spirit is also supported by local hospitality venues, the town hall, and civic societies that foster inclusive, neighbourly relationships.

Petworth is widely regarded as a safe and tranquil community, with lower crime rates than those typically seen in larger urban areas. Property crime and antisocial behaviour are infrequent, contributing to the town’s appeal for families and older residents searching for a sense of security.

The visible police presence, along with neighbourhood watch schemes and community engagement initiatives, supports a reassuring daily environment. Occasional issues do arise, but the overall crime rates in Petworth remain below the national average, reinforcing its reputation as a secure place to live within West Sussex.

Parking in Petworth can be in demand, particularly during busy weekends or special events. The town centre has several public car parks and on-street parking, but spaces may be limited close to major attractions such as Petworth House and the market square. Resident permit schemes operate in some areas to provide equitable access for those living centrally.

The A272 and A283 ensure convenient road access to the town for commuters and visitors alike. Congestion is rarely an issue outside of peak visitor times and large events. The rural road network is typically well-maintained and provides scenic routes throughout the South Downs.

• Chichester – approx. 30 minutes via A285 (17 miles)
• Guildford – approx. 50 minutes via A283/A3 (25 miles)
• Pulborough – approx. 20 minutes via A283 (9 miles)
• Haslemere – approx. 30 minutes via A283 (14 miles)

Petworth is well known for its collection of independent eateries, historic pubs, and charming cafés. The Angel Inn and The Leconfield are both longstanding favourites, providing traditional English fare in period settings. For those seeking relaxed coffee culture, several artisan cafés and bakeries dotted throughout the centre are popular stop-offs for locals and tourists alike.

While Petworth is not a major nightlife destination, it offers a sophisticated evening scene with wine bars and venues hosting occasional live music. The town also has excellent access to gastro pubs and fine dining further afield in West Sussex and the greater South Downs region. Seasonal food and farmers’ markets contribute to a strong local food culture.

School quality: Families in Petworth benefit from a well-regarded primary school and access to several reputable secondary schools in the area, contributing to its appeal for those with children.

Parks and green space: The proximity to Petworth Park and the South Downs National Park offers abundant outdoor space for recreation, nature exploration, and picnics.

Childcare: Childcare options are available locally and in neighbouring towns, including nurseries, playgroups, and after-school clubs to support working families.

Safety: Petworth offers a reassuringly low-crime environment, with visible policing and community watch schemes ensuring families feel secure.

Family activities: Regular events at Petworth House, local fairs, and easy access to countryside walks ensure there are plenty of family-friendly options throughout the year.

Petworth is an excellent choice for pet owners, with the expansive grounds of Petworth Park offering miles of dog-walking trails and scenic open spaces. The South Downs further enhances opportunities for pet-friendly outdoor activities, making the area popular among dog owners and animal lovers alike.

Petworth has local veterinary surgeries and pet shops meeting everyday needs, as well as cafés and pubs that welcome dogs both indoors and in garden spaces. Attitudes toward pets are generally very positive, and many local landlords consider pets in rental properties, reinforcing Petworth’s reputation as a pet-friendly destination.

Petworth is well-connected by road, with access to the A272 and A283, linking it to key destinations in West Sussex, Hampshire, and across the South East. Public transport is provided primarily by regional bus services connecting Petworth with nearby towns such as Pulborough, Midhurst, and Chichester.

While Petworth does not have its own railway station, residents can use the Pulborough station (about 20 minutes by car), which offers regular services to London Victoria and coastal destinations. The nearest major airport is Gatwick Airport, around 50 minutes away by car. Access to the wider national road network via the A3 and M25 enables straightforward journeys to London and the South Coast.

• London – approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by train from Pulborough
• Chichester – approx. 30 minutes by bus or car
• Guildford – approx. 50 minutes by car via A283/A3
• Brighton – approximately 1 hour by car

Petworth offers a select number of highly regarded educational options, providing quality education for local families while benefiting from West Sussex’s reputable school network.

Primary Schools:
Petworth Church of England Primary School is located at the heart of the community and rated "Good" by Ofsted (2019). The school is known for its nurturing environment and active involvement in local events. St. Mary's Church of England Primary School in nearby Pulborough is also popular among Petworth residents.

Secondary Schools:
Students typically attend secondary schools in nearby towns. Midhurst Rother College, about 7 miles away, is well-regarded and rated "Good" by Ofsted (2018). The Weald School in Billingshurst is another respected choice for families willing to travel slightly further.

Independent Schools and Colleges:
Seaford College, an independent day and boarding school, is located just outside Petworth and caters for students aged 7–18, offering a broad curriculum and extensive extracurricular activities. Ditcham Park School in Petersfield is another alternative, providing independent education from nursery to sixth form.

Universities:
Petworth does not have a university, but the University of Chichester and University of Sussex are within reasonable commuting distance, offering a wide range of higher education courses to residents of the area.